Tinea cruris (commonly known as ‘jock itch’) is an infection caused by fungi that live on human skin, hair and nails. In warm, moist conditions (such as the groin area after an intense workout) the fungi can multiply, leaving an itchy, red rash on the affected area.
Who is most at risk of contracting Jock Itch?
Although anyone can get jock itch, it is most common in male adults and teenagers who play contact sports. People who are overweight, diabetic, or sweat a lot are also at greater risk of developing jock itch. Locker rooms or shared exercise equipment can be breeding grounds for the fungus. Jock itch can be prevented by cleaning shared exercise equipment, not sharing towels, and wearing loose, dry clothing.
What are the symptoms of Jock Itch?
Jock itch can cause redness, itching, or a burning sensation, as well as flaking or cracking skin of the infected area (usually the groin and inner thighs). The rash often has a raised, scaly border. In more severe cases, the rash may spread to the abdomen or buttocks. Often the rash gets worse after strenuous activities such as exercise or sports.
Is Jock Itch the same as athlete’s foot?
Both are caused by fungi (tinea or ‘ringworm’) and cause similar reactions on the skin. The main difference is where on the body the infection occurs. Jock itch occurs in the groin area, while athlete’s foot refers to an infection of the feet. If the infection occurs elsewhere on the skin or scalp, it is simply called ringworm.
How is Jock Itch contracted?
Often, jock itch is contracted by staying in sweaty workout clothes for too long. By not showering or changing clothes after sweating, the fungi can multiply and cause itching. Wearing tight-fitting workout clothes that don’t “breathe” can increase your chances of developing jock itch if moisture gets trapped. To avoid itching, it is always best to shower, wash yourself thoroughly, and dry yourself completely with a clean towel after a hard workout.
Is Jock Itch Contagious?
Yes, jock itch can be passed from one person to another, but it is easily preventable, as long as you take precautions such as not sharing personal items like towels, bathing suits or jockstraps, then you will be fine. The substances in these items can potentially transmit the disease from one person to another. It is best to wipe down exercise equipment before and after use and avoid going barefoot in locker rooms or around swimming pools.
Is Jock Itch an STD?
Being sexually active is not a risk factor for developing jock itch. However, Jock Itch is mildly contagious and can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact when conditions are right (remember what we said about warm, moist environments). So while it is not considered an STD, jock itch can potentially be transmitted from one person to another through sexual contact. For this reason, you may want to abstain from sexual intercourse until the rash is gone.
How Does Jock Itch Differ From Herpes?
Although jock itch is a fungal infection, genital herpes is caused by a virus. Genital herpes is caused almost exclusively by skin-to-skin contact with someone else’s open sores and leaves fluid-filled blisters that can burst, leaving open sores that can be painful. However, Jock it causes a scaly, reddish rash. Although both can cause discomfort in the groin area, they are not alike. If you are unsure whether the rash is jock itch, genital herpes, or something else, it is best to consult your doctor.
How is Jock Itch Cured?
Jock itch can usually be cured with over-the-counter creams, ointments, sprays, or powders. These are usually applied to the affected area once or twice a day for a period of several weeks, depending on the medication. In some more extreme cases, prescription medication may be necessary.